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ArcGIS Maps SDK for Java

Mar 06, 2024

Announcing the Deprecation of ArcGIS Maps SDK for Java

By Mike Branscomb and Rex Hansen, Nick Furness , Mark Baird and Sneha Suresh

The ArcGIS Maps SDK for Java is being deprecated, with its final release scheduled for November 2024 in the form of Version 200.6.  

Originally launched as the ArcGIS Runtime SDK for Java over a decade ago, it was later rebranded as the ArcGIS Maps SDK for Java in December 2022. Throughout its lifespan, the ArcGIS Maps SDK for Java has proudly supported developers building robust, cross-platform desktop applications for Windows, Linux, and macOS systems.  

Reason for Deprecation 

In the ever-evolving landscape of application development, the mobile-first approach has become the norm. As a result, the Java Maps SDK has taken a backseat to its cross-platform counterparts, which offer seamless integration with both Android and iOS. Alternatives include the ArcGIS Maps SDK for .NET and ArcGIS Maps SDK for Qt, as well as platform-specific frameworks like ArcGIS Maps SDK for Kotlin and ArcGIS Maps SDK for Swift, which are championed by Google and Apple, respectively. 

It is important to note that the ArcGIS Enterprise SDK is a separate product from the ArcGIS Maps SDK for Java and will not be affected by this deprecation. Esri remains committed to supporting the use of the Java language with ArcGIS as it continues to be widely used for web services and enterprise development.  

Esri constantly evaluates changes and trends in existing technologies, and the emergence of new technologies, to ensure we deliver comprehensive mapping and geospatial SDKs that enable developers to build modern ArcGIS solutions for mobile, desktop, and embedded systems. 

Support and Retirement Plan 

The most recent release of the ArcGIS Maps SDK for Java was version 200.3, delivered in December 2023. This release introduced several enhancements in the areas of clustering, geometry editor, and basemap styles. The development effort for upcoming interim releases and the final release in November 2024 will focus on API completeness, bug fixes, and third-party updates. Thereafter, the product will continue to adhere to the standard lifecycle for Native Maps SDKs, which includes one year of General Availability (GA), one year of Extended support, and two years of Mature support. The product is scheduled for retirement in November 2028.

Migration Options 

For customers currently using the ArcGIS Maps SDK for Java to build desktop applications, it is important to note that they will have to migrate their application development to an alternative SDK. This can be done within the ArcGIS Maps SDKs for Native Apps product line or by exploring other ArcGIS developer technologies. To ensure a smooth transition, customers are advised to start planning their migration to an alternative Native Maps SDK. Two options to consider are: 

In addition to these options, developers should also review their specific requirements and explore other ArcGIS developer technologies that may be suitable for their needs. Some alternatives to consider are:

By carefully evaluating these alternatives customers can ensure a seamless transition and continued success in developing their applications.

Connect with Us 

Please reach out to us on Esri Community or connect with your account manager if you have questions about the retirement or app migration options. The Java Maps SDK team will be at the 2024 Esri Developer Summit in Palm Springs and will be happy to assist you with your current projects and discuss the best solution for future apps. 

 

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Mike Branscomb

Mike Branscomb is a Product Manager for the ArcGIS Maps SDKs for Native Apps and ArcGIS Maps SDKs for Game Engines. With over 20 years of experience working in the Esri ecosystem, he specializes in .NET, Local Server, and 3D Scene Layers. Mike is also a Scrum Product Owner with over 10 years of experience guiding teams through the product development lifecycle.

Rex Hansen

Rex Hansen is a Product Manager for the ArcGIS Maps SDKs for Native Apps and ArcGIS Maps SDKs for Game Engines. He has over 25 years of experience in GIS, spatial analytics, and computer mapping. Currently, he guides the development of native technologies in the GIS industry to use authoritative geospatial content and analysis in offline workflows, photorealistic experiences, and immersive, extended reality solutions.

Nick Furness

Nick Furness is a Product Manager for the ArcGIS Maps SDKs for Native Apps, and ArcGIS Maps SDKs for Game Engines, specializing in Swift and iOS. He's spent over 25 years working in the GIS space building projects ranging from small mom-and-pop solutions all the way up to enterprise utility and national government deployments. Nick presents at various Esri Developer Summits, the User Conference, and many other events, almost always talking about something to do with the Native Maps SDKs (although you might find the odd bit of JavaScript thrown in there).

Mark Baird

Mark Baird is the engineering lead for the ArcGIS Maps SDK for Java product. He has worked with GIS for 25 years in both consultancy roles and more recently in product development. This has involved working in many industry areas including environmental science, ecology, insurance risk analysis, public safety and situation awareness systems.

Sneha Suresh

Sneha Suresh is a Product Marketing Manager on Esri's Developer Marketing team. She is a passionate marketer with over eight years of experience spanning various sectors including Information Technology, Ride-Hailing, and Gaming. Sneha earned her MBA from Cornell University's Johnson School of Business and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics Engineering from the University of Mumbai.

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